Dull or broken blades can greatly inhibit the quality and efficiency of your mower's cut. If not regularly inspect and, if needed, replaced, damaged and worn blades can become dangerous projectiles while the machine is being operated. Continuously check on your blades to avoid hassle and unnecessary repair costs. Always remember to wear heavy protective gloves when dealing with blades.
Before servicing any power equipment, follow the safety instructions laid out in your owner's manual. Make sure the equipment is completely stopped, cooled down, and that no parts are moving before attempting to service your equipment.
- Step 1: Remove the deck from beneath the tractor. Flip it so that the underside of the deck is exposed and can be serviced.
- Step 2: Put a wooden block between the center deck housing baffle and the cutting blade. This will act as a stabilizer.
- Step 3: Remove the hex flange nut that is securing the blade to the spindle assembly.
- Step 4: Remove the blade.
- Step 5: Inspect the blades. If they are severely worn or damaged, you will need to replace them.
- Step 6: If they can be sharpened and balanced, properly do so by removing equal amounts of metal from both ends of the blades along the cutting edges.
- Step 7: Test the blade's balance using a blade balancer. Grind metal from each side until it is properly balanced.
- Step 8: Reinstall your new/sharpened/balanced blades. Utilize the wooden block to stabilize the blades.
- Step 9: Ensure that the blade is installed with the side marked "bottom" facing where the ground would be if the mower was in its upright operating position.
- Step 10: Torque the hex flange nut to between 70 lbs-ft and 90 lbs-ft.
- Step 11: Flip the deck and reinstall it onto your mower.
For information about safety, warranty, and your specific model, read and be familiar with your owner’s manual.